Berkeley’s Tool Lending Library Reopens at Temporary Location

Beginning Tuesday, March 20th, Berkeley Public Library’s Tool Lending Library will be open to the public at its temporary location 2525 8th Street, at Dwight Way. The Tool Library will operate out of this temporary location while the South Branch Library is closed for approximately 15 months to allow for the construction of a new 8,700 square foot library. The South Branch is closed as of Saturday, March 17, 2012. The Tool Lending Library hours of service are Tuesday & Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Wednesday & Thursday 12 noon to 7:30 p.m. and Friday 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., closed on Sunday and Monday. The Tool lending library carries a wide range of hand and power tools available for loan to Berkeley residents and property owners at no cost. A full list of the tools available for checkout with a valid Berkeley library card is available at: http://www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org/about_the_library/neighborhood_branches/tool_lending_library/index.php We extend our thanks and appreciation to everyone for their support of Measure FF and, since that time, participation in the public design and approval process which has brought us to this milestone. The new library will be built following the demolition of the current facility. The replacement Library, designed by the San Francisco firm of Field Paoli Architects, will meet all current codes, provide adequate space for users of all ages and is designed to be warm and inviting; creating a welcoming civic presence and enhanced services to the community. The Tool Lending Library will be part of the new space, with increased room for storage and an improved layout. During the closure, patrons are encouraged to visit the remaining open library facilities. In addition, Library BranchVan service will begin on Monday, March 26th on Oregon Street, just west of Grant Street. Check out the Library’s Branch Construction Projects webpage or pick up a South Branch Temporary Closure Guide for more service information during the temporary closure that includes the BranchVan and children’s storytime schedules. The Library will continue to post project information and updates on its website at: berkeleypubliclibrary.org/branchimprovements and hopes to see you at the South Branch Library grand re-opening, anticipated in Spring 2013. For more information call 510-981-6101.